MXPA05008727A

MXPA05008727A - Cash dispensing automated banking machine and method.

Info

Publication number: MXPA05008727A
Application number: MXPA05008727A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Thomas Graef Harry
Original assignee: Diebold Inc
Priority date: 2003-03-10
Filing date: 2004-03-09
Publication date: 2005-09-20
Also published as: CN1839081B; PL212577B1; US7144006B2; US20040178561A1; US7344132B2; ZA200507420B; RU2312811C2; PL378393A1; US7195237B2; US20040178562A1; AR043534A1; US20040178560A1; EP1606203A2; ES2389561T3; WO2004081884A3; US7669845B2; CA2517719A1; US20060285613A1; US20080012205A1; BRPI0408269A

Abstract

An automated banking machine (10) includes at least one of sheet dispensing mechanisms (34, 36, 38, 40, 210). Each sheet dispensing mechanism includes a picking member (72, 212). The picking member rotates, and with each rotation generally causes an end note to be picked from a stack (42, 264) of sheets. The picking member (212) includes an arcuate projecting portion (258) that reduces the risk of damage to the leading edge areas of sheets due to opposed picking and stripping forces.

Description

METHOD AND MACHINE AUTOMATIZED BARRIER CASHIER TECHNICAL FIELD This invention relates to automated transaction machines. Specifically, this invention relates to an automated transaction machine that includes a bill delivery mechanism for delivering sheets one sheet at a time from a stack.

ANTECEDENTS OF ART Automated transaction machines include automated banking machines. A common type of automated banking machine is an ATM machine (ATM). ATM machines can be used to carry out transactions such as cash assortment, accepting deposits, asking account balance questions, paying invoices and transfer funds between accounts ATM machines and other types of automated banking machines can be used to supply documents such as tickets, vouchers, promissory notes, checks, wagering materials, receipts or other documents, even when many types of machines Automated banking machines, including ATM machines are operated by consumers, other types of automated banking machines can be operated by service providers Such automated banking machines can be used by service providers to provide cash or other types of sheets or documents when transactions are carried out for the client For the purposes of this description, an automated banking machine will be considered as any machine that is capable of carrying out transactions which include transfer of securities.

A popular brand of automated banking machine is manufactured by Diebold, Incorporated, the assignee of the present invention. Such automated banking machines are capable of selectively supplying sheets to the users of the machine. A leaf spout mechanism used in the machines includes a picking mechanism which delivers or "picks up" sheets generally one at a time from a stack of sheets stored inside the machine. The sheets are transported through one or more transports within the machine and eventually delivered to a user. A collection mechanism used in one of the Diebold automated banking machines is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,577,720, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The harvesting mechanism includes a rotating harvesting member comprising a plurality of cylindrical parts positioned along an axis. Each cylindrical part includes a high friction segment along a part of the circumference. These high friction segments are dimensioned and positioned so that with each rotation of the collecting member, an end bill limiting one end of the stack is exposed to high friction segment movement. Such exposure causes the end bill to be moved out of the stack in contact with the moving cylindrical portions of the pick-up member.

Placed on one side of each of the cylindrical portions of the collecting member and in the direction of rotation of the collecting member with respect to the stack when the notes are collected, there is at least one unclipping member. A stripping member is placed in a generally abutting relationship with each of the cylindrical portions of the collecting member. Each stripping member is generally circular and does not generally rotate during the rotation of the picking member in a bill collection direction. The stripping member generally operates to prevent all except the final bill from moving out of the stack with the rotation of the picking member. The stripping member operates to prevent that generally all but the end bill is delivered from the stack because the force applied by the picking member directly on the end bill exceeds the strength of resistance applied by the stripping member to the bill. of end. However, the strength of resistance of the stripping member acting on the bills in the stack other than the end bill, because such bills are not generally engaged with the picking member, generally prevents the other bills from moving out of the stack. .

In an example embodiment of the harvesting mechanism, the unclipping members are each supported by one-way clutch mechanisms. These one-way clutch mechanisms prevent the stripping members from turning in response to the force applied to the stripping members as the picking member moves to take a banknote. However, the one-way clutch in connection with each stripping member allows each stripping member to rotate in a direction opposite that in which the stripping member is urged to move during collection. This is useful in situations where a doubles detector senses that more than one bill has moved beyond the discharging member. In such circumstances a controller operating in the banking machine may operate to cause the collection member to turn in an opposite direction, which is the opposite of the direction in which the collection member normally moves when collecting a banknote. As the picking member moves in this opposite direction, the stripping member rotates as to facilitate movement of the multiple sheets back toward the stack. Once the multiple sheets have been moved back to the stack and past the discarding member, the controller can operate to make the collection mechanism again try to pick up a single bill from the stack.

In many existing automated machines produced by the assignee of the present invention, the bank notes that are collected from the dispenser are moved through a transport of the type shown in United States of America Patent No. 5,342,165, the description of which is incorporated here for reference. Such transports include a plurality of transversely placed band vanes which move the bills in contact therewith. A projecting member is positioned between each adjacent pair of the band vanes. The projecting member generally extends at least at the level of the contact surfaces with the blade of the adjacent band vane. As a result the sheets are captured in a sandwich relationship between the protruding members and the band vane. This sandwich placement of the sheets causes the sheets to move with the moving webs to selected locations in the machine. For example, as shown in the incorporated description, the sheets are moved in contact with the band vane to a stack. Once the stack of sheets has accumulated, the stack is brought into contact with the strip pallets so that it can be moved to be presented to a user of the machine.

The leaf dispensing mechanisms and the described transports are highly reliable and have been used extensively in automated banking machines. However, sometimes problems can be encountered in the collection and transport of leaves. In some circumstances the sheets may have a relatively high surface tension and an affinity for the adjacent sheets. This can prevent an end note from being easily separated from a stack of sheets. Alternatively, an end note may be worn or soiled in a manner that reduces its frictional properties. In such cases an end banknote may be more resistant to the forces of the high friction segment on the picking member and will not be easily separated from the stack. In alternate situations the picking mechanism can pick up a type of sheet which is plasticized or otherwise has reduced friction properties relative to the high friction segment on the picking member. In such circumstances the collection of the end note from a stack may be more difficult to achieve reliably.

The difficulties in the collection of the leaves can also be found due to wear or decompositions. After extended use the high friction segments on the pickup member can wear out. These results in the segments provide less latching force to move an end note. Alternatively or in addition, the high friction segments can become dirty with use, which can also have an effect in reducing the friction properties of the picking member. The money containers which contain the stack of banknotes also provide a pressing force to hold the end bill in an abutting relationship with the picking member. As a result of damage or wear, the mechanism that provides the pressing force may not provide such a large pressing force to the end bill to engage the pickup member and it may be desirable to achieve a highly reliable sheet pickup.

In the circumstances in which the collecting member has difficulty picking up a bill, the bill falls to move in a coordinated relationship with the high friction segments of the cylindrical parts of the picking member. The high friction segments can rotate beyond the end note leaving the end note generally in the stack. When this situation occurs, the machine controller usually operates in such a way that repeated attempts are made to collect the ticket. If the bill can not be removed from the stack, the machine can operate according to its schedule to provide tickets from other supplies through other collection mechanisms inside the machine. Alternatively, the machine may indicate a breakdown and be taken out of service. In any case, the extended transaction time or the complete inability to carry out the transaction of the user presents a significant inconvenience to the user of the machine. some additions and alternate circumstances banknotes or other means may be deformed by the action of the picking member and the unclipping member. In such circumstances the front edge of the bill may be nicked and / or wrinkled by contact with the stripping member. Such deformed bills can prove to be difficult to operate on the machine. For example, the deformed part of the bill can be detected as a double bill by a fold detector inside the machine. This can cause the ticket to be diverted as non-deliverable to a user of the machine. Alternatively, such a bill is detected as a double can be returned to the stack in an effort to separate the perceived double notes. The additional collection and undressing actions on the already deformed banknote may also exacerbate the problem.

Tickets with less than optimal properties can also cause problems when transported inside the machine. Banknotes that have become wet or dirty may adhere to the projection members and may fail to move with the paddles in the transport. Tickets that are slippery or have unduly low friction may not produce sufficient latching force with the moving pallets and may not move in a coordinated relationship with the pallets. Similarly, worn or flaccid banknotes may not achieve normal latching force with the band vanes and may jam or otherwise fail to move in transport.

These conditions also present the potential for delaying a transaction or placing a machine out of service. The problem of bills that are stuck in a transport can also result in an improper assortment of bills. In some circumstances bank notes may be wrinkled or damaged due to transportation problems.

Therefore there is a need for improvements to the collection mechanisms and the transport of sheets used in automated banking machines. There is also a need for improvements to collect mechanisms and transports used in automated banking machines that can be easily installed in existing machines to facilitate use with types of bills and sheets that have a wide range of properties.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It is an object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine with an improved system for collecting sheets.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine with an improved system for collecting and transporting sheets.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine which minimizes wrinkling and nicking of the sheets during collection.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for collecting sheets in an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an example form of the present invention to provide a method for transporting the sheets in an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for improving the operation of an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for improving an existing machine to provide improved sheet collection.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for improving an existing automated banking machine to provide improved transport of the sheets.

Additional objects of the exemplary forms of the present invention will become apparent in the following best modes for carrying out the invention and the appended claims.

The above objects are achieved in some exemplary embodiments by replacing the pickup member in the prior art sheet spout mechanism with or otherwise providing an alternate pickup member that provides the additional application force to move a sheet from a stack in situations where the blade does not move with the pickup member. In the example embodiment the sheets which are taken through the operation of the collection member are banknotes that are collected from a stack. The stack is limited by an end note which contacts the pickup member.

A first alternate pick-up member includes at least one part of mobile hitch. The movable engagement part can move with respect to the rotary collection member. The alternate harvesting member operates so that when the picking member rotates about its axis to pick up a bill, the picking portion is in contact with the end banknote being collected. In circumstances where the picking member rotates so that the movement of the picking member exceeds the movement of the end banknote, the picking part further moves outward relative to the picking member. This outward movement of the engaging part applies an increasing engagement force to the end bill. This increasing engagement force results in an additional force tending to move the end bill relative to the stack.

An example form of the first alternate harvest member includes a cam surface and a follower cam part. The follower part of cam is operatively connected to the engaging part. The action of the cam surface and cam follower part operates to cause the engaging part to move radially inward when necessary, before the engaging part passes to one side of the stripping member. This reduces the risk of the coupling part colliding with the stripping member and prevents damage to the dispensing mechanism as well as the bills being moved therethrough.

In an additional alternate exemplary embodiment a collecting member is provided with a high friction arc segment. A pick-up member is placed over the opposite engagement relationship so as to be pressed towards the pick-up member and the high-friction arc segment. The exemplary form of the pickup member includes at least a low friction arcuate projection portion arcuately aligned with a front portion of the high friction segment and axially transversely positioned from the cover member. In an exemplary embodiment the low-arched arcuate projecting part engages the end bill being collected as to provide support for the banknote in the support area transversely adjacent to the uncoating area which reduces the trend of the banknotes. bills to nick or wrinkle due to the action of the stripping member.

An alternate example embodiment also includes a transport of sheets for transporting bills or sheets that have been dispensed from the dispensing mechanism. The sheet transport includes a plurality of bands which include a plurality of transversely spaced and generally parallel band vanes. The projecting member portions extend generally parallel and in the middle of the band vanes. This configuration allows the sheets to move in a sandwich relationship between the band vanes and the projection member portions. To provide more reliable blade movement, at least one of the conventional bands is replaced with an alternate band. Although the conventional webs have a generally smooth web engaging surface, the example form of the alternating web includes at least one and preferably a plurality of projections extending from the web engaging surface of the web. As a result, the sheets that get stuck due to adhesion to the projection member portions will be hooked by the projections and pushed to move in a transport. Similarly, the sheets which do not have a sufficient frictional engagement with the band vanes to be moved along the transport are hooked by the projections and pushed to move with them. This minimizes the risk of the sheets hanging in the transport and results in a higher reliability of the machine.

The example forms of the collection member and the band can be installed in new machines or in existing automated banking machines without substantial additional modifications to the machines. This can allow the improvement of the conflabilidad of the machine quickly and to a modest cost.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic side view of an automated banking machine incorporating a first example embodiment.

Figure 2 is a side view of a collection member used in the first example embodiment.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the harvesting member shown in Figure 2 in an operative connection with a drive in the machine.

Figure 4 is a side view of the harvesting member shown in Figure 3.

Figure 5 is a side schematic view of the pickup member operating to move an end note from the stack in circumstances where the end note moves in a coordinated relationship with the pickup member.

Figure 6 is a view similar to that of Figure 5 but showing a movement of the pick-up part of the pick-up member radially outward in response to the pick-up member moving in a pick-up direction without corresponding movement of the tip bill.

Figures 7-10 are side schematic views showing a sequence of the positions of the engaging portion of the harvesting member and the operation of the camming surface to retract the hooking member as the picking member rotates.

Figure 11 is an isometric view of a part of a strip pallet including longitudinally spaced projections thereon.

Figure 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the sheet transport showing a sheet in engagement with the plurality of band vanes and projection member portions.

Figure 13 is an isometric view of a sheet transport including the web pallets of the type shown in Figure 11 operating to move a sheet through the transport.

Figure 14 is a schematic side view showing a sheet that has been filled by a dispensing mechanism that moves to engage a sheet transport.

Figures 15-17 show alternative example forms of the projections placed on the band vanes which can be used in connection with the sheet transports including the improvement of the present invention.

Figure 18 is a top right isometric view of an alternate form of a collection member and a stripping member adapted to minimize nicking and crumpling of the bills during collection.

Figure 19 is a left isometric view of a middle disc portion of the harvesting member, the stripping member and the removal roller shown in Figure 18.

Figure 20 is a left side view of the middle disc portion of the pick-up member, the stripping member and the take-up roller in contact with an end bill delimiting a stack.

Figure 21 is an amplified view of the components shown in Figure 20.

BEST MODES TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION Referring now to the drawings and in particular to Figure 1, there is shown an example embodiment of an automated banking machine generally indicated with the number 10. In the machine of example embodiment 10 this is an ATM machine. However, it should be understood that the invention can be used in connection with other types of automated transaction machines and banking machines.

The automated banking machine 10 includes a box 12 which houses certain components of the machine. The components of the machine include the input and output devices. In this example embodiment the input devices include a card reader schematically indicated with the number 14. The card reader 14 is operated to read a customer card which includes the information about the customer about it, such as the number of the client's account. In some embodiments the card reader 14 may be a card reader adapted to read magnetic stripe cards and / or calls, "smart cards" which include a programmable memory.Another input device in the example embodiment is the keys of input 16. The input keys 16 can in the embodiments of the invention be arranged on a keyboard or board The input keys 16 can alternatively or in addition include function keys or other types of devices to receive manual entries. in various embodiments, other types of input devices may be used such as biometric readers, speech or speech recognition devices, inductance type readers, IR type readers and other devices capable of communicating with a person, article or a computing device, radio frequency type readers and other types of device s which are able to receive information that identifies a customer and / or their account.

The example embodiment of machine 10 also includes the output devices that provide outputs to the client. In the example embodiment, the machine 10 includes a display 18. The display 18 may include an LCD, CRT or other display type that is capable of providing visible signs to a customer. In other embodiments, the output devices may include devices such as audio speakers, RF transmitters, IR transmitters or other types of devices that are capable of providing outputs which may be perceived by a user either directly or through the use of a device. of computation, article or machine. It should be understood that some embodiments also include combined input and output devices such as a digital display display which is capable of providing outputs to a user as well as receiving inputs.

The example embodiment of the automated banking machine 10 also includes a receipt printer indicated schematically with the number 20. The receipt printer is operated to print receipts for users that reflect the transactions carried out on the machine. The incorporations may also include other types of printing mechanisms such as the declarations printing mechanisms, ticket printing mechanisms, check printing mechanisms and other devices that operate to apply indicia to the media in the course of carrying carried out the transactions carried out with the machine.

The automated banking machine 10 further includes one or more controllers schematically indicated with the number 22. The controller 22 includes one or more processors that are in operative connection with one or more data stores or memories indicated schematically with the number 24. The controller is operated to carry out the programmed instructions to achieve an operation of the machine in achieving transactions. As indicated schematically, the controller is in operative connection with a plurality of transaction function devices included in the machine.

The example embodiment includes at least one communications device 26. The communications device may be one or more of a plurality of types of devices that allow the machine to communicate with other systems and devices for the purpose of carrying out transactions. . For example, the communications device 25 may include a MODE to communicate the messages on a data line or a wireless network, with one or more other computers operating to transfer data representative of the transfer of funds in response to the transactions carried. out on the machine. Alternatively, the communication device 26 may include various types of network interconnects, line drivers or other suitable devices to allow communication between the machine 10 and other computers and systems.

The machine 10 also includes a plurality of sensing devices to sense various conditions in the machine. These various perception devices are schematically represented by component 28 for simplicity and to facilitate understanding. It should be understood that a plurality of sensor devices are provided on the machine to sense and indicate to the controller 22 the status of the devices within the machine.

The automated banking machine 10 further includes a plurality of actuators indicated schematically 30 and 32. The actuators may comprise a plurality of devices such as motors, solenoids, cylinders, rotary actuators and other types of devices that are operated in response to the controller 22. it is understood that the numerous components within the automated banking machine are operated by actuators placed in operative connection thereto. The actuators 30 and 32 are shown to schematically represent such actuators in the machine and to facilitate understanding.

In the automated banking machine of example 10 there are four leaf dispensing mechanisms 34, 36, 38 and 40. Each leaf spout mechanism is operated in response to the controller 22 for taking the sheets. The sheets may be selectively collected in a general manner one at a time from a stack of sheets such as a stack 42 shown on one side of the sheet dispensing mechanism 34. In the example embodiment each of the stacks of sheets associated with a mechanism respective leaf dispenser is housed in a metal box. A metal box 44 houses the sheets in connection with the dispensing mechanism 34. Similarly, a metal box 46 houses the sheets to be picked up by the dispensing mechanism 36. The metal box 48 houses the sheets supplied by the dispensing mechanism 38 and a metal box 50 houses the sheets which are supplied by the dispensing mechanism 40. As schematically represented in the metal box 44, the stack of sheets 42 is pressed to make contact with the sheet dispensing mechanism by a pressure mechanism 52.

In the example embodiment, the metal boxes 44, 46, 48 and 50 are used to hold the sheets having a predetermined value such as banknotes. Such bank notes can be of various denominations which allow money to be supplied in variable amounts to the clients. Alternatively one or more of the metal boxes may contain other types of sheets such as coupons, vouchers, tickets, money orders or other items of value. The controller operates the dispensing mechanism selectively in response to the customer inputs and information from the systems with which the machine communicates, to make the sheets selectively dispensed from the metal boxes.

The bills that are supplied from the metal boxes in the example embodiment are hooked with a first transport of notes schematically indicated with the number 54. The first bill transport 54 which is later described in detail, includes a plurality of continuous bands 56. The continuous bands extend around the sets of rollers 58 which operate to drive and guide the bands. As schematically shown in Figure 1 by the sheet stocked from the spout mechanism 36, the sheets are enabled to engage the adjacent paddles of the bands 56 and move in contact therewith upwards to a second transport 60.

The second transport 60 in the example embodiment may be similar to that shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,342,165 whose description is incorporated by reference as fully written herein. The transport 60 also includes a plurality of continuous bands 62 which extend around the sets of rollers 64. Said sets of rollers 64 operate to drive the band 62 so that the bills pass upwards in the transport 54 and initially engage the pallets of the band 62 and are collected in a stack 66. In response to the operation of the controller 22 when a desired number of notes have been collected in the stack 66, the stack is moved in the manner of the incorporated description and the bands 62 are driven so that the stack 66 is moved towards a user opening 68 in the box 12 of the machine. As the bills are moved into the opening 68, the controller operates a suitable actuation device to operate a gate 70 so as to enable the stack to pass out through the opening. As a result the user is enabled to receive the sheets from the machine. After a user is perceived to have removed the stack from the opening, the controller can operate to close the gate 70 to minimize the risk of a machine violation.

It should be understood that the devices shown in connection with the automated banking machine of example 10 are representative of devices that can be found in such machines. Numerous additional or alternating types of devices such as deposit acceptance devices, document reading devices, money accepting devices, ticket printing devices and additional devices can be included in automated banking machines which they are used in connection with the alternate additions.

Figure 14 shows a first leaf jet mechanism 34 in greater detail. In the example embodiment of the machine 10 all the dispensing mechanisms may be the same or of different types of sheet assortment mechanisms that may be used. The spout mechanism 34 includes a pickup member 72. The pickup member 72 is selectively rotated in response to the controller 22 about an axis 74. The banknotes or other sheets in the stack 42 are supported by a support surface 76 the which ends in the area adjacent to the collection member. An end bill 78 holds the stack adjacent the pickup member 72. During each rotation of the pickup member the current end bill holding the stack is moved and delivered from the stack and passed to transport 54.

The picking member 72 has a clamping surface 80. The bonding surface 80 is in a generally abutting relationship with the stripping members 82 which are alternatively referred to herein as stripping or stripping members. As previously discussed, the stripping members 82 in the example embodiment rotate in a left-to-right direction as shown in Fig. 14. In the example embodiment, the stripping members 82 nevertheless rotate in a right-to-left direction because to the action of the associated one-way clutches as described below.

Positioned downwardly of the stripping members 82 is a doubles detector 84. The doubles detector 84 can be a mechanical sensor, a radiation sensor, a sonic sensor or another type of sensor that is suitable for determining whether single or multiple notes they have moved beyond the discarding member to transport. Downstream of the doubles detector is a pair of withdrawal rollers 86. The withdrawal rollers are operated to engage the leaves that have been moved sufficiently out of the stack to engage the rollers. The rollers which are operated by an impeller in response to the controller 22, operate to engage the leaves and move them in the transport. It should be understood that this configuration of the dispensing mechanism is exemplary and in other embodiments different configurations may be used.

As discussed in the incorporated description of U.S. Patent No. 5,577,720, the normal operation of the spout mechanism involves the pickup member that rotates in response to the controller 22 during picking operations. When it is desired to collect the end bill 78, the pick-up member 72 rotates in a right-to-left direction as shown in Figure 14 around the axis 74. This is done through the operation of an impeller or other similar device. The rotation of the harvesting member pushes the end bill 78 to move it from the stack. The stripping members 82 resist movement of the end bill because the stripping members do not move in a left-to-right direction as shown in Fig. 14. Because the surface area of the pick-up member 72 engages the bill at the end and due to the frictional properties of the outer bonding surface 80, the force that pushes the end bill 78 to move from the stack generally exceeds the strength of resistance of the stripping members. This is because the stripping members have a smaller surface area and / or a different coefficient of friction resulting in less strength of resistance than the force of movement of the picking member. The stripper members however provide sufficient strength to generally resist all except the end note 78 preventing them from moving out of the stack. This is because the bills in the pile other than the end bill are not directly hooked to the pickup member and do not experience the same degree of force that pushes them to move from the stack.

Upon being moved the end note 78 of the stack the thickness thereof can be sensed by the doubles detector 84. The doubles detector 84 is operatively connected to the controller and at least one doubles detector signal provides an indication of whether or not a single ticket or multiple bills have been pulled from the stack. In circumstances where multiple notes are perceived, the controller can cause the pickup member to operate to stop rotation in the right to left direction as shown in Figure 14, and instead of turning in a left direction to right. When the pick-up member 72 rotates in a left-to-right direction to pull the return sheets into the stack 42, the example stripping members 82 are enabled to rotate cooperatively in a right-to-left direction as shown in the figure 1 . This is due to the one-way clutch associated with each of the unclipping members. As a result the sheets are returned to the stack. Then the controller 22 can again operate to rotate the pick-up member 72 in a right-to-left direction and an attempt is again made to pick up a single end-of-stack note.

In the circumstances where the doubles detector 84 perceives only that a single bill is passing from the stack, the controller operates an impeller or other suitable movement mechanism to cause the removal rollers 86 to engage and move the sheet to the transport 54. It should be understood that the steps described as being taken in response to the operation of the controller are exemplary. In some embodiments of the invention the controller may cause the machine to operate to direct the double bills to a diverter box or other storage area rather than attempting to repeatedly pick up a single bill.

The harvesting member of the first example embodiment of the present invention is shown in greater detail in Figures 2 and 3. The harvesting member 72 includes a central axis 88. Three separate cylindrical portions are supported on the shaft. These cylindrical parts include a central part 90. Placed on the first axial side of the cylindrical part 90 is a first outer part 92. Placed in an opposite axial direction from the central cylindrical part is a second outer part 94.

As shown in Figure 3 each cylindrical part 90, 92 and 94 has an associated one of the stripping members 82 in an abutting relationship with the same indicated with the numbers 96, 98 and 100 respectively. Each of the stripping members has an associated one-way clutch 102, 104 and 106 operatively connected thereto. Each of the one-way clutches as previously discussed allows a rotation of a single track of the stripping member. The stripping member is enabled to rotate only when the leaves are being pulled back into the pile. However, when the leaves are being collected the unclothing members remain generally stationary.

As shown schematically in Figure 3, the shaft 88 is operatively connected to the driver 108 which selectively rotates the shaft in response to the signals from the controller. As shown in Figure 3, in the stripping member of the example incorporation 96 which is in an abutting relationship with the central part 90 this is positioned in a somewhat angular manner from the stripping members 98 and 100 which are in an abutting relationship with the outer parts 92 and 94 respectively. In the exemplary form of the invention, the stripping member 96 is positioned somewhat forward angularly of the other stripping members so that the strips tend to contact the central stripping member during collection before the stripping members 98 engage and engage. 100. Of course other incorporations may use other approaches, configurations and types of disengaging member and collection members. In addition, as discussed below in connection with the alternate incorporation, not all cylindrical parts can operate in conjunction with the opposing dismantling members.

As shown in Figure 2 the outer limiting surface 80 of the harvesting member includes an outer surface 110 of the cylindrical part 90, as well as the outer surface 112 of the cylindrical part 92 and the outer surface 114 of the cylindrical part 94. The outer surface 110 includes thereon a relatively high friction portion with ribs 116. The balance of the outer surface 110 has a relatively lower friction portion 118. The high friction portion 116 applies a latching force to the end bill. which limits the stack which is generally sufficient to hook and move the end bill from the stack. The low friction portion 118 is generally enabled to move relative to the end bill without causing the bill to move from the stack. In example incorporation this construction reliably facilitates the collection of a single ticket every time the pickup member is rotated one turn. This construction also provides a spacing between the bills sequentially taken from the stack. Such spacing facilitates identification and handling of banknotes.

The outer surface 112 of the cylindrical portion 92 similarly includes a relatively high friction portion and rib 120 on the outer surface thereof. The outer surface 112 also includes a relatively lower friction portion 122 which surrounds the high friction portion. The angular position of the high friction part 120 generally corresponds to the high friction part 115 on the central part 90. As in the case with the relatively high and low friction parts, the high friction part 120 applies force to the end note generally sufficient to engage and move it from the stack, while the relatively lower friction part is enabled to move in engagement with the end note without causing it to be disposed of. the battery. In a similar manner as shown in Figure 2 the cylindrical part 94 also includes a generally high friction part 124 and a generally lower friction part 126. The high and low friction portions on the cylindrical part 94 correspond angularly to the parts of high and low friction on other cylindrical parts of the collecting member.

As clearly shown in the partial cross-sectional view of Figure 3, within the high-friction portion 120 of the cylindrical part 92 is an arcuate segment 128. The arcuate segment 128 occupies a part of the axial width of the cylindrical portion towards the outer side of the collecting member. The arcuate segment 128 is supported on a movable member 130. The movable member 130 is discussed below in detail, is moved relative to the cylindrical portion and the harvesting member in a manner which allows the arcuate segment 128 to move radially outwardly. in relation to the limiting surface that limits the harvesting member. In the exemplary embodiment the cylindrical portion 92 is generally I-shaped in cross section and includes a central fabric portion 132. The woven portion 132 ends in a cross section in a flange portion 134 which holds the outer surface 112 about it. The movable member 130 is moved in a recess 136 on a first longitudinal side of the tissue member 132.

A cam 138 is placed in a recess 140 which extends on the opposite longitudinal side from the recess 136. The cam 138 is in support connection with the arrow 88. The cam 138 is also in support connection with the member part. of support 142. The support member portion 142 operates to support the stationary cam 138 by rotating the arrow 88 and the cylindrical portion 92.

The cylindrical part 94 includes the structures which are generally a mirror image of those associated with the cylindrical part 92. The high friction portion of the outer surface 114 includes an arcuate segment 144 which is supported on a movable member 146. Movable member 146 is placed in recess 148 which is joined by a tissue portion 150 and a flange portion 152 of cylindrical portion 94.

A cam 154 is positioned in a recess 156 on the opposite longitudinal side from the recess 148. The cam 154 is in support connection with the shaft 88 and is held stationary in relation to the arrow by a support member portion 158.

As the operation of the cylindrical parts 92 and 94 of the picking member is similar, an explanation of the operation of the picking member will be described with reference to the cylindrical part 94. As best seen in Figure 4, the segment 144 extends through an opening 160 in the flange portion 152 of the cylindrical part 94. The movable example member 146 is generally horseshoe-shaped and is supported on the pick-up member via a pivot connection 162. The connection of pivot supports the mobile member 146 through the tissue part 150.

The cam 154 is connected by a cam surface 1S4. A cam follower part 166 is supported on the movable member 146 and at an opposite end of the arcuate segment 14. The cam follower part extends through an opening 168. in the tissue part 150. This allows the cam follower part 166 to engage the cam surface 164 of the cam 154. As can be appreciated, this arrangement it allows the position of the arcuate segment 144 to be controlled by rotating the pickup member due to the engagement of the cam follower 166 with the cam follower 164.

The overall operation of the example picking member 72 is explained with reference to figures 5 and 6. As indicated in figure 5, during normal operation of the picking member the high friction parts on the picking members hook a bill of end 78 delimiting the stack. The high friction parts move the bill generally engaged and at the same speed as the pickup member, beyond the stripping member 82 so that the end bill is moved from the stack. During this normal operation the bill is moved in a synchronized relationship with the movement of the outer limiting surface 80 of the collection member 82. As a result during normal operation the speed of the end bill indicated by the arrow N generally corresponds to the velocity of the outer surface 80 of the pickup member represented by the arrow P. The arrow F corresponds to the direction of the force applied to the stack which holds the end bill 78 in a relationship engaged with the pickup member 72.

Figure 6 depicts the operation of pickup member 72 of the first example embodiment when an end ticket 78 fails to move in a coordinated relationship with the pickup member. In such circumstances the speed and displacement of the pick-up member is greater than the corresponding speed and movement of the end bill 78. The high-friction arcuate segments 128 and 144 which serve as engagement parts, because they are enabled. to move in relation to pick-up member 72, they tend to keep the relationship engaged with the end bill. This is represented by the arcuate segment 144 in Figure 6. Because the engaging portion of the arcuate segment 144 remains engaged with the end bill and is movable relative to the pickup member, when the angular movement of the pickup member exceeds. the movement of the engaging part of the segment 144, the segment 144 moves radially outward relative to the outer limiting surface 80. The movement of the engaging part further radially outwardly relative to the axis of rotation 174 increases the force of hooking on the end bill pushing it to move from the pile. As can be seen from the final detailed description of the movement member, the engagement portions tend to move further radially outwardly providing an increased latching force, with an increase in difference between the movement of the picking member and the latching part. This increasing force on the end bill tends to cause the end bill to begin moving beyond the stripping members 82 so that the bill can be picked up. At the beginning of the end bill to move in a coordinated relationship with the pick-up member, the hook parts may begin to move radially inwardly. In the exemplary embodiment the action of the cam follower part and the cam surface operate to ensure that the engaging portions are moved radially inwardly to the level of the outer limiting surface 80 for as long as the engaging parts rotate to a position adjacent to the stripping members 82. This ensures that the hooking parts and the bills are not damaged.

Figures 7-10 show the example operation of the pickup member 72 with respect to the cylindrical part 94 of the pickup member. It should be understood that the cylindrical part 92 is a mirror image thereof and works in a similar manner during collection. As depicted in Figure 7, the pick-up member 72 rotates in the direction of the arrow P. Assuming that the end bill engaged with the hook part which is included on the segment 144 is not moving in synchronization with the pick-up member, the segment 144 rotates in a first direction about a pivot connection 162. This results because the segment 144 is engaged with the bill and the angular movement thereof does not correspond to the angular movement of the pick-up member 72 around of the shaft 74. The segment 144 moves radially outward in relation to the axis 7. The radially outward movement of the segment 144 is limited by the engagement of the follower cam part 166 with the cam part 164 of the cam 154.

As can be appreciated, the outer movement of the engaging portion on segment 144 applies an increasing engagement force on the end bill in response to the end bill not moving with the pick-up member. In addition, the engaging portion of the segment 144 operates to further move radially outwardly with an increasing difference between the movement of the picking member and the movement of the bill. This outward movement may continue until the segment 144 reaches the full extent of its displacement as limited by the cam surface.

As shown in Figure 8, if the end bill has not initially moved in coordinated relationship with the pick-up member, the hook portion of the arcuate segment 144 will generally remain extended radially outward relative to the outer limiting surface of the member. of collection when the harvesting member rotates additionally. This provides an additional force tending to ensure that the bill is moved from the stack. It should be appreciated that once the bill begins to move, if the movement of the bill begins to exceed that of the pick-up member, the hook portion of the arcuate segment 144 will begin to retract radially inward toward the outer bond surface 80. Generally however, once the engaging part has been radially extended outwards, it will remain extended outwardly in the extent allowed by the engagement of the cam follower portion 166 with the camming surface 164.

As shown in Figure 9, as the pick-up member 72 rotates further toward the position in which the engaging portion of the arcuate segment 144 approaches the unclipping members, the profile of the cam surface 164 causes the follower part of cam 166 causes the movable member 146 to rotate in relation to the pivot connection 162. As shown in FIG. 9 the cam surface tends to rotate the movable member 146 in a generally opposite rotational direction around the pivot connection. 162, a direction in which the movable member rotates to extend the arcuate segment. As a result, by rotating the pickup member so that the arcuate segment approaches the stripping member, the arcuate segment tends to move radially inward toward the outer restraining surface 80.

As shown in Figure 10 once the pick-up member 72 has rotated to the point where the engaging portion of the segment 144 is in an abutting relationship with the stripping member, the operation of the cam surface 164 and the cam follower part 166 has caused the engaging part to be retracted through movement of the movable member 146. The outer surface of the segment 144 at this point is moved to conform generally with the outer limiting surface 80 of the collecting member. . In addition, as the hook part is retracted radially inward over segment 144, said engaging part applies a reduced engaging force to the end bill as the end bill is moved between the pick-up member and the stripping member. This decreasing force not only avoids the coalitions between the coupling part and the disengaging members, but also avoids a possible damage to the mechanism as well as the fact that the notes are collected.

As shown in Figure 10, the example embodiment includes a stop part 170 on the movable member 146. The stop part 170 engages a surface 172 that limits the recess 148. The stop part prevents the engagement part from engaging. the segment 144 is moved radially inward essentially beyond the outer joining surface 80 of the collecting member.

As can be appreciated, this example embodiment of the harvesting member provides an increasing hooking force on the end bill in response to the end bill that does not move with the picking member. As a result the additional collection force is applied in not only those circumstances where it is required to move the end note of the stack. In the circumstances in which the bills are dirty, have a high surface tension or are of a slippery consistency, an additional movement force is usually applied automatically. Furthermore, this example form of the harvesting member also allows to compensate for the reduced wear or friction with the soiling that may result from the extended use of a harvesting member. In this way the example form of the collecting member is able to compensate for those conditions which could otherwise result in a decrease in the reliability of the ticket collection.

It should further be understood that even when in the example form of this harvesting member the catching part is moved radially outward and applies an additional harvesting force based on the relative movement between the end bill and the picking member, in others Incorporations can be used other approaches. Such approaches may include, for example, other devices and systems for determining a difference in a relative movement between the bills that are being picked up and the picking member, and moving in a hooked portion to apply an additional latching force in response thereto. Although the example form of the invention uses a mechanical type system to accomplish this, electronic and electromechanical systems can be used in other embodiments.

A further useful aspect of the example form of the first embodiment of the collection member and its operation in connection with the assortment mechanisms is that it can easily be retrofitted to an existing automated banking machine. The example form allows a service technician to have access to an interior area of an ATM machine such as by opening a door to secure a chest part. Once access is gained to the bill handling mechanism, the technician can remove an existing collection member which does not include the characteristics of the easily movable hitch parts, and install a collection member 72 instead. In the exemplary embodiment, the support member portions 142 and 158 are configured to engage the surfaces existing within the ATM machine box to hold the stationary cams when the pickup member is rotated. Once installed in the ATM machine, the door to the safe chest part is closed and secured.

The harvesting member 72 is constructed to have the same general profile as the harvesting members that do not incorporate the improved harvesting characteristics of example. Therefore, the installation of the example collection member is easily done to improve the operation of the machine. It should further be understood that the programming of the controller 22 is also frequently required not to change it to accommodate the installation of the pickup member 72. Except as described herein, the operation of the pickup member 72 is similar to that of the pickup member which may be replaced in terms of movement and retraction of bills.

Alternate incorporations of the automated banking machine may include other types of leaf dispensing mechanisms. The characteristics of an alternating blade spout mechanism 210 are described in relation to Figures 19-21. The leaf spout 210 operates based on principles similar to those described in connection with the first embodiment except as specifically described herein.

The leaf spout mechanism 210 includes a rotary pick-up member 212. The pick-up member 212 includes an axle part 214 that extends along a central axis indicated schematically 216. In the exemplary embodiment the axle part 214 is rotated about the shaft 216 by an impeller such as a stepped motor which is not shown separately. The harvesting member may alternatively be mentioned here as a harvesting member.

The pickup member 212 includes a middle disk portion 218. The middle disk portion 218 in the example embodiment is in fixed connection with the shaft part 214 and rotates therewith. The harvesting member 212 further includes an outer disk portion 220 which is positioned from the middle disk portion on a first axial side. The outer disk portion 220 is also in fixed connection with the shaft part 214 and rotates therewith. An outer disk portion 222 is positioned on an opposite axial side of the middle disk portion 218. The outer disk portion 222 is also in fixed connection with the axle parts and rotates therewith. Because the middle disk portion 218 and the outer disk portions 220 and 222 are each in a fixed engagement with the shaft part, they maintain their angular positions relative to the turning of the shaft portion during bill collection.

In an exemplary embodiment, the middle disc portion 218 is composed of a generally rigid plastic material. The middle disc portion includes an arcuate low friction surface 224 that extends angularly about a substantial portion of the middle disc portion. The arcuate portion of low friction 224 has a recess extending there (not shown separately). A band 226 of a generally superior friction elastic material extends around the middle disc portion in the recess. The band 226 and the recess includes an amplified area 228 in which the band extends through most of the outer surface of the middle disc portion. As described in detail below, the amplified area 228 of the band serves as a high-friction arcuate segment that facilitates the collection of banknotes from a stack.

The outer disc portion 220 in the example embodiment also comprises a generally rigid low friction material. The outer disc portion 220 includes an outer surface 230 which includes a recess there (not shown separately). A band 232 of elastic material extends into the recess and extends around the entire circumference of the outer surface. The band 232 includes a high friction segment 234. The high friction segment 234 corresponds in angular position to at least a portion of the amplified area 228 on the middle disc portion. In this exemplary embodiment of the outer disc portion 220, the flange portions 236 limit the recess and the band 232. The flange portions 236 further extend radially outwardly relative to the axis 216 than the outer surface of the band 232. except in the area of the high friction segment 23. In the area of the high friction segment the band 232 extends radially outwardly beyond the radial height of the flange portions 236 to facilitate picking.

The outer disc portion 222 is similar in structure to the outer disc portion 220. The outer disc portion 222 includes an outer surface 238 which includes a recess and in which a band 240 extends. The outer surface 238 includes the flange portions 242 which limit the recess and the band. The band 240 includes a high friction segment 244 which extends radially outwardly beyond the flange portions. The high friction segment 244 is generally angularly aligned with the high friction segment 234 on the outer disc portion 220.

The stripping member 246 is placed in an opposite engagement relationship with the middle disc portion 218. In the example embodiment the stripping member 246 comprises a roller which is supported on an arrow 248. The stripping member 246 has in connection therewith a one-way clutch which can operate in a previously described manner. The clutch operates to resist rotation of the stripping member in a direction in which the stripping member is urged to move by engagement with the middle disc portion, but allows the stripping member to easily rotate in an opposite direction so as to allow the return of the bills inside the pile. In the exemplary embodiment the stripping member 246 has a guide member 250 which extends in a superimposed relation thereto. The guide member includes an upper surface which has an outline that facilitates the direction of the bills within the pressure point area when the stripping member 246 engages the middle disc portion (see FIG. 20).

In the example embodiment the stripping member 246 is positioned with respect to the middle disc portion 218 so that the surface of the stripping member is in an opposite engagement relationship with the surface of the low friction arc portion 224 of the stripping part. middle disc. As a result the stripping member 246 which is pressed to engage the middle disc part in a later discussed manner, it generally slides easily relative to the middle disc portion except when the surface of the stripping member is engaged in the amplified area 228. When the amplified area 228 is in an abutting relationship with the stripping member, the end bill Limit a pile of bills is stripped of the other bills in the stack in a manner that is discussed later.

As shown in FIG. 18, a withdrawal member which in the example embodiment comprises a roller 252 is also mounted in an opposite engagement relationship with the middle disc portion 218. The removal roller 252 is supported on the axis 254. and is pressed to engage the middle disc part. The withdrawal roller 252 is aligned with the area of the recess in the middle disc portion that extends around the entire circumference of such a disc portion. As a result, the removal roller generally remains in engagement with the elastic band 226 through full rotation of the middle disc portion except for as long as the bill is moving therebetween. The exemplary form of the removal roller 252 is positioned downwardly and in an angular direction away from the stripping area in which the stripping member 246 engages the middle disc portion. This is shown in Figure 20. As a result in the example embodiment the withdrawal roller operates to engage a bill that has been separated from the stack by the action of the stripping member and the amplified area 228, and moves the separate bill in response to movement of the pick-up member so that the separate bill is moved out of the stack. In some embodiments this may avoid the need for a separate drive for the take-up rollers, since the movement of the pick-up member itself drives the take-up roll to move the separated bills out of the stack.

As shown in FIG. 18, a lower box wall 247 supports a support member 249 thereon. Support member 249 includes slots 251 and 253 and which accept arrows 248 and 254 ahx, respectively. The wall 247 is also integrally formed thereon the leaf spring portions 243 and 245. The leaf spring portion 243 presses the arrow 245 and the stripping member 246 toward the middle disc portion 218 by pressing in a fastener part. 241 of the member 250. The spring portion 245 acts on the arrow 254 to press the removal roller 252 to engage the middle disc portion. The ends of each opposite arrow 248 and 254 of the roller are mounted in support connection with the housing through a releasable pivot connection (not shown separately) which allows each roller to maintain pressure engagement with the disc part. half. The pivot connection allows each of the stripping member and withdrawal member and their respective arrows to be released from the operational support connection from the box and replaced. Of course, in other embodiments, other releasable mounting arrangements may be used.

As shown in greater detail in Figure 19 the amplified area 228 on the middle disc portion 218 includes a front area 256. The front area 256 has transversely extending adjacent thereto, an arched projection portion 258. The projection portion arched 258 in the example embodiment comprises an extension of the outer surface of the middle disc portion 218. The arcuate projection portion 258 extends radially outwardly relative to the axis beyond the outer surface of the web 226 in the area front 256. The arcuate projection area is also positioned on one side but transversely outward from a stripping area 260 in which the stripping member 246 engages the front area 256 of the enlarged area 228 of the strip.

In the example embodiment the arched projection part 258 arches upwardly to an indicated driving area 252 in the amplified area 228 of the band. In the driving area the band further extends radially outward relative to the front area 256. The driving area 252 generally corresponds angularly to the positions of the high friction arcuate segments 234 and 244 on the outer disk portions 220 and 222 respectively. As shown in Figure 19 the amplified area 228 of the elastic band includes a rib design that is consistent across the front area 256 and the drive area 262. In some embodiments the rib design can serve to provide desirable frictional properties for the band. Of courseIn other embodiments other designs for the running surfaces as well as other types of frictional materials can be used. The operation of the alternate example sheet spout mechanism 210 is now described with reference to FIGS. 19-21. A stack of banknotes indicated schematically 264 is joined by an end bill 266. In the exemplary embodiments the stack 264 may generally be contained within a removable metal box or other suitable retainer. Of course alternate approaches to contain a stack of bills can also be used. The stack 264 is pressed in the direction of the arrow F in FIG. 20 by a pressure device suitable for pushing the end note 266 of the stack to engage the collection member including the disc portions 218, 220 and 222.

As in the previously described embodiment the end note 266 is separated from the stack by the rotation of the collection member 212 in the direction of the arrow R as shown in Figure 20. The rotation of the collection member 212 generally does not cause the end bill 266 moves essentially in relation to the stack except when the drive area 262 of the middle disk portion and the high friction segments 234 and 244 of the outer disk portions are engaged with the end bill. This is due to the relatively low friction engagement between the outer surfaces of the disc parts and the end bill in the other areas around the circumference of the disc portions.

As the pick member rotates one full rotation the end note 266 is moved in relation to the stack. In the example incorporation rotation of the pickup member brings the front area 256 to one side of the front boundary of the amplified area 228 of the band 226 on the middle disc portion in engagement with the outer surface of the stripping member 246 in the area of undress 260 as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21. The forces of the relatively moving front area and the non-moving outer surface of the stripping member act on the leading edge area and on opposite sides of the end bill make the The bill begins to be separated and in many cases begins to move in response to the rotation of the collection member in relation to the stack. However, in the example embodiment even when the front edge area of said end bill 266 is engaged with the front area 256 of the pickup member, the end bill is also engaged with the surface of the cross-arched projection portion. adjacent 258 of the middle disk part. This engagement of the end bill with the arched projection portion in a support area that is adjacent, but axially somewhat transversely disposed from the stripping area, serves to hold the bill and to reduce the risk of the front bank area of the bill The bill is deformed as it is wrinkled or nicked by the opposing forces imparted to the bill by the action of the amplified area of the band and the stripping member. Thus the surface of the arcuate projection portion serves to prevent excessive deformation of the bill along a direction in which the bill is urged to move around the pickup member due to the opposing force indicated by the stripping member. The angled treads of the example picking member below the front edge area of the bill in opposite relation to the stripping member further serve to enable relative movement of the picking member with respect to the bill without causing potentially damaging deformation.

An additional rotation of the middle disc portion in the direction of the arrow R causes the arcuate projection portion to rotate beyond the stripping area where the stripping member 246 engages the magnified area 228. In addition such rotation causes the stripping member drive 262 which has an outer surface that further extends radially outwardly from the front area to engage the adjacent surface of the end bill. This imparts an additional force by pushing the end bill 266 to move relative to the stack. Moreover, in generally the same moment during the rotation of the harvesting member, the high friction arcuate segments 234 and 244 on the outer disk portions also act on the end bill further pushing it to move it relative to the stack. These forces acting on the end bill cause the end bill to move further in an intermediate relationship between the band 226 and the stripping member 246 and engage the take-up roll 252. The end bill 266 is moved in an intermediate relationship. engaged between the band 226 on the middle disc portion and the withdrawal roller 252 which also helps to move the end bill out of the stack and the collection member.

Of course as previously described in connection with the other example embodiment, if a double ticket is perceived as having been collected, the controller can be operated to make the direction of the collection member reversed. This is done before the bill is unhooked from the collecting member so as to move the bill back into the pile. After the controller can operate to make the collection member again try to pick up the end ticket so that it has been separated from the other bills in the stack.

The features described in relation to the sheet assortment mechanism 210 may prove useful in circumstances where the bills or other sheets to be picked may tend to be wrinkled or have the front edge thereof dented or torn by the imparted forces to the sheet as a result of the undressing action. In the example embodiment the forces imparted to the sheet initially by the front area serve to move a central part of the front edge of the sheet into the pressure point formed by the middle disc portion and the discarding member, while an area transversely adjacent is supported by the arcuate low friction projection portion which is operative to reduce the possibility of nicking or crumpling of the bills in the area where the stripping forces are applied to the bills. Such characteristics may be particularly useful in the case of thin, flexible and / or brittle notes that are susceptible to wrinkling or tearing. Furthermore, avoiding the deformation of the front edge of the bills also reduces the risk that such a deformed or damaged bill is perceived by a double detector as a double or another unrecognized bill. This reduces the risk that such a bill will be returned to the stack. Such return of a single ticket properly collected may not be necessary. Also in some additions the return to the stack and additional attempts to collect the bill from the stack may result in additional damage or breakage of the bill. This can cause additional complications and / or can cause the machine to be put out of service.

It should be understood that the structures shown in relation to the leaf jet mechanism are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches to provide a stripping action while simultaneously providing support in the support area so as to minimize damage to the sheet may use. For example, in some embodiments, additional surfaces or devices for providing support may be provided on the harvesting member, the stripping member or on other structures. Furthermore, it should be understood that even when in the embodiment described a single stripper member is used, the principles described may be applied to the devices in which the multiple strippers members are used.

As shown in Figure 18, the example embodiment of the leaf spout mechanism 210 also provides an easy change of the pickup member 212. In this exemplary embodiment, the box 268 which holds the leaf spout mechanism includes an appendage portion. 270 about it. The appendage part 270 includes a bushing 272 adjacent to a free end thereof. The hub 272 is adapted to accept there a cylindrical projection portion at the end of the arrow part 214. This projection part is easily engageable in the hub 272 in the example embodiment. The end of the opposite arrow portion 214 of the bushing 272 is releasably engageable with the drive arrow 274. In the example embodiment the drive arrow 274 includes a cylindrical projection portion extending into a recess that matches within the arrow part 214. A pushable projection in operative connection with the drive arrow 274 is accepted in the corresponding recess in the arrow part 214 as to provide a generally solid rotational drive latch between the drive shaft 274 and the pickup member 212. As a result, in the embodiment example described the pickup member 212 can be replaced by deforming the elastic appendage part 270 outwardly relative to the casing 268. This provides additional clearance so that the arrow part 214 can be unhooked from the drive shaft 214 and hub 272. A replacement pickup member may then be inserted and held in place by the pressing force inward of appendix part 270. Of course this approach is exemplary and other approaches may be used.

In the example embodiment, before the pickup member is removed from the support connection with the box it is generally advisable to place the stripping member and the removal member out of the middle disc portion. This provides greater access to the collection member and allows it to be moved out of the box for inspection or replacement purposes. In addition, it is occasionally necessary to replace the stripping member and / or the removal member for purposes of ensuring reliable operation of the machine. As can be appreciated, in some situations the stripper member may wear out over time due to repeated contact with the bill surfaces. Alternatively or in addition, the surface of the stripping member may become contaminated due to the presence of dirt or other material on the bills that are being assorted. The surface of the withdrawal member can also be contaminated for similar reasons which can reduce its efficiency in hooking and pushing the bills to move them between the removal member and the central disc part.

When it is desired to move the stripping member 246 out from the middle disk portion 218, a server gains access to the appropriate area of the box 268. This is done in the example embodiment by moving the cassette or metal box containing money which houses a stack of banknotes or other sheets and which allows the end bill in the stack to be pressed in adjacent relationship with the picking member. Once the sheet support structure has been removed from the box, a serving employee can manually deform the leaf spring portion 243 so as to move the free end of the leaf spring downward so that the leaf spring no longer holds the stripping member 246 in an adjacent relation of the picking member. This can be facilitated in the example embodiment by the service personnel applying a force to the stripping member or shaft 248 so as to initiate the movement of the stripping member slightly away from the axis of rotation of the stripping member. This allows the sheet retaining portion to disengage and move it so that the free end thereof is placed below the sheet 248 and the fastener portion 241 of the bracket 250. This allows the stripping member 245 to be moved. axially outwardly of the axis of rotation of the collection member outwardly through the slot 251. As previously discussed, in the example embodiment the arrow 248 is in sustained connection with the box through a pivot assembly so that the stripping member moves arcuately away from the axis of the picking member. Of course this approach is an example, and in other incorporations other approaches can be used.

In the position with the stripping member moved outward from the butt-to-toggle relationship with the pick-up member, a service person is enabled to keep the stripping member positioned away from the axis of the pick-up member for the purpose of inspection or replacement of the stripping member. harvest. Alternatively, in the example embodiment the stripping member and the shaft assembly are enabled to be removed from their assembly for inspection or replacement purposes. As a result, a service personnel is enabled to replace a disengaging member, guide member, arrow or complete assembly as required. Also in the example embodiment, the unclipping member has an integral one-way clutch which, as previously discussed, facilitates the handling of situations where multiple sheets are inadvertently picked up.

Once the desired parts are replaced, the arrow 248, the stripping member and the guide member assembly can be hooked with the mounting mechanism to again put them in support connection with the box, and the stripping member moved towards the axis of rotation of the picking member. As this occurs, shaft 248 moves into slot 251. Once the stripping member is in the operative position, the leaf spring portion 243 which is pressed downwardly by the fastener part 241 as the member moves. unclipper in the operative position, is enabled to move upwards to engage the fastener part.

This action of the leaf spring part holds the stripping member in the operative position in a butt-pressed relationship with the central disc portion.

A mounting approach similar to that used for the stripping member can be used for the take-up roll 252. The take-up roll, which is positioned transversely from the stripping member and placed in the direction of bill movement from the point of attachment of disengaging member with the central disc portion, is pressed towards contact with the middle disc portion and is maintained through the action of the leaf spring portion 245. The leaf spring portion 245 in the operative position has a free end which "engages the arrow 254 which is in support connection with the removal roller. In the operative position, arrow 254 extends into slot 253 as to maintain its position relative to the central disc portion. The arrow 254 at the opposite end of the take-up roller is also movably mounted in support connection with the box through a mount which is not shown separately. Of course this approach is an example and in other incorporations other approaches can be used.

In the example embodiment the take-up roller 252 is enabled to be moved out from the axis of the pickup member. This is achieved by a service personnel who deforms the leaf spring part 245 so that the arrow 254 no longer engages, as to keep the withdrawal member in the operative position. In the example embodiment this can be facilitated by the service personnel pressing the arrow and / or the withdrawal member slightly outwardly of the withdrawal member while deforming the leaf spring portion 245 so that the free end it can pass under the arrow 254. The arrow 254 can then be moved back out of the axis of rotation of the pick-up member through the slot 253. Again, in this position the withdrawal member can be maintained as to provide access to inspect or replace the withdrawal member. Alternatively, in the example embodiment the removal roller can be replaced together with the arrow 254 by unhooking the arrow from its mounting mechanism.

When it is desired to return the take-up roll to the operative position after the service or replacement activities, the arrow 254 is returned to its rotary mounting mechanism and the take-up roll 252 is moved toward the rotation axis of the pick-up member and inside slot 253.

When this occurs, the leaf spring part 245 has the free end thereof pressed down until the arrow 254 passes the free end. Once the arrow 254 has moved sufficiently forward towards the axis of the harvesting member, the free end of the leaf spring part 245 moves upwards to keep the arrow in a position in which it is pressed towards the hitch with the middle disc part.

It should be noted that the example approach has the advantage that the removal roller and the stripping member can be placed from the support member 249. This also allows for easier replacement of the support member in the case of the support member. Hold the break or wear. Such replacement can be achieved through the use of various fastening mechanisms which are operated to releasably hold the support member in engagement with the box. It should also be understood that in carrying out the service activities in the example embodiment, it will generally be desirable to move the stripper member and bring the roller to the operative position once the pickup member is in place in support connection with the drive arrow 274 and appendage portion 272. However, in some circumstances service persons may find it useful to move one or both of the stripping member and removal roller in the operative position and then install the pickup member in engagement with the appendage part and the drive shaft. The approach used will depend on the circumstances and the nature of the service activity.

In an exemplary embodiment a ticket transport such as ticket transport 54 includes the features to reduce the risk that the tickets may become jammed or trapped in transport. As discussed previously in connection with Figure 1, the bill transport 54 includes a plurality of continuous webs 56 which extend around the sets of rollers 58. It should be understood that transport 54 may include webs extending to length complete transportation or they may have several bands which cover transportation sections. In an exemplary embodiment, the webs are arranged so that the transport includes a plurality of generally parallel webs. These webs are shown in FIG. 12 by the webs 174, 176 and 178. Each of the webs of webs extends along a longitudinal direction of transport in which the webs are moved in the longitudinal direction. . The web pallets are moved through the operation of an impeller or a similar movement mechanism which is controlled in response to the operation of the controller 22 and which drives the rollers on which the webs are supported.

As shown in Figure 12, placed transversely in the middle of each adjacent pair of the band vanes, are the projection member portions 180, 182. As can easily be seen from Figure 12, each of the band vanes has a first sheet engaging surface represented by the surface 184 of the band vane 174, which is facing in a first direction towards a sheet 186 which extends in the transport. The projection member portions each include a second sheet engaging surface represented by the surface 188 of the projection member portion 180. The second sheet engaging surface 188 is facing in a second direction of face which is generally opposite of the first face direction. As will be appreciated the first and second face directions in which the sheet engaging surfaces of the band vanes and the projection member portions extend respectively, are both generally normal to the longitudinal direction in which the sheets move. .

As can be seen from FIGS. 12 and 13, the configuration of the first web pallets and the sheet engaging member part is that a web that is moved in an intermediate relationship between the first pallet engaging surface of the pallets The web and the second of the sheet engaging surfaces of the projection member portions is deformed in a wave type configuration so that the sheet is engaged with the webs. As a result when the web pallets move, the web 185 moves in engagement therewith.

As can be seen from Figure 14, the sheet transport 54 is enabled to accept the sheets such as a sheet 190 through the openings such as an opening 192. As can be appreciated, from Figure 14, a sheet that passes to Through the opening in the projection member portions it moves in engagement with the first band vanes to be caught in a sandwich relationship between the band vanes and the projection member portions. The sheet once trapped in this manner is caused to be moved together with the band vanes to a desired location within the machine in response to the signals from the controller.

As mentioned previously, sheets occasionally such as banknotes get stuck in transports of this type. This can result due to several conditions which prevent the bills from moving in a coordinated relationship with the band vanes. In an exemplary embodiment, conventional type belts which have been used in the past in transports of this type are replaced with alternating belts which reduce the risk of the sheets becoming jammed. Specifically while the previous bands have a generally smooth web-engaging surface, the alternating bands used in the example form include at least one longitudinally spaced projection which extends in the first face direction from the web engaging surface of the web. In a more preferred example form such longitudinally spaced projections extend at spaced intervals on the first sheet engaging surface of the web. The presence of such longitudinally spaced and spaced projections engage the leaves that might otherwise not move in the transport and move them to the desired location.

Figure 11 shows an isometric view of the band vane 174 with the first sheet engaging surface 184 thereof turned 180 degrees from that shown in Figure 13. The first sheet engaging surface 184 includes a plurality of projections longitudinally spaced 19. the projections 194 extend generally in the first direction represented by the arrow 196. In the example embodiment, the projections 194 are deformable, elastic and spaced from each other by a distance that is greater than the length of the leaves that are moved. through the associated transport in the longitudinal direction. This allows an anoja to extend between the longitudinally spaced and adjacent projections. It should be understood, however, that other embodiments may have projections with other properties and the projections spaced closer together. Other alternate embodiments may have the projections spaced apart, even to the extent of including only one of such projections on the continuous web engaging surface of a band.

In some embodiments all bands used in connection with a transport may include projections thereon. However, in some embodiments it may be desirable only to replace certain bands with alternating bands including such projections. For example in transportation including three band vanes shown in Figure 13, it may be desirable to only replace the medium band with an alternate band. Alternatively it may be desirable to replace the two outer bands with an alternate band, leaving the middle band as having a generally smooth continuous outer surface. Several approaches to replace the bands can be taken depending on the particular type of documents that are being transported.

As shown in Figure 13, some embodiments may have multiple bands arranged so that the projections extending from the first sheet engaging surfaces of the bands are generally aligned transverse. In this way each of the longitudinally spaced projections will generally maintain the same spaced relation in relation to the other projections as the bands are moved from the transport. The alternate embodiments may have the bands installed so that there is no predetermined relationship between the projections on each respective adjacent band. In each situation the benefit is obtained since the projections facilitate the movement of the leaves in the transport.

It should be understood that the configuration of the web pallet 74 with the longitudinally spaced projections which extend through the first sheet engaging surface of the web is exemplary. In other embodiments, other types of projection configurations may be used. For example, Figure 15 shows a band vane 198. The band vane 198 includes the bubble type projections 200. Figure 16 shows an additional alternating band vane 202 which has the adjacent cone type projections 204. Figure 17 shows an additional alternating band vane 206. The band vane 206 includes the ramp type projections 207. It should be understood that these band and projection configurations are exemplary and in other embodiments other configurations may be used.

The example form of transport improvements is designed to be used in connection with existing transports which move the sheets such as banknotes in an automated banking machine. The belts which include the improvements are made to extend around the existing sets of rollers within the machines and to replace the existing conveyor belts which have continuous and generally smooth sheet engaging surfaces around the entire periphery thereof. . To improve the performance of the transports in such machines, a service person must open the machine box such as by removing the bolt and opening a door of a safety chest. The service person is then enabled to remove the existing conveyor belt from a set of rollers which supports and moves such a belt. With the anterior band removed from the transport, an alternate band of one of the types described above including the longitudinally spaced projections is installed in the support connection with the roller set. The service person can then close and fix the safe casing door of the ATM machine. The blades can then be moved in the transport pushed not only by the relatively smooth portions of the blade engaging surface of the strip, but also pushed to move them by engagement with the projections thereon. As can be seen, the projections on the belts provide an additional thrust force which is generally sufficient to move the blades that might otherwise slip or jam in the transport.

It should be appreciated that in the example embodiment, the alternate bands described can be used in relation to transport 54 as well as transportation 60. The principles of the invention can also be applied to other devices which move the leaves within the magne . Bands for example which include longitudinally spaced projections of the type described above may be used in connection with a system for moving stacks of sheets as shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,507,481, the description of which is incorporated herein by reference. as if it had been written here again completely. In such transports the projection member portions comprise the moving blade blades which are moved in coordinated relationship with the face blade blades and serve to transport the piles between them. Alternative bands include projection portions thereon which can be used to move stacks of sheets that are between and allow the movement of such stacks more reliably. As explained in the incorporated description, such transports in which the projection member portions comprise moving band vanes allow to reliably move stacks of notes or connected bills or sheets such as notebooks and checkbooks into a banking machine automated The principles of the present invention can also be applied to other types of pile and sheet conveyors including, for example, stack accumulation and display mechanisms such as are found in U.S. Patent No. 5,435,542, Description is incorporated herein by reference as if it had been written here again completely. Of course the principles can be applied to other transportation mechanisms as well. It should be understood that improved sheet assortment functions achieved through the use of one or more of the principles described herein can be incorporated into automated banking machines with improved transport characteristics to achieve improved reliability in the movement and delivery of sheets. inside the automated banking machine. Of course, it should be understood that in some embodiments the improved collection capabilities will be implemented without the improved transport capabilities and vice versa. The principles described herein can also be applied to other configurations of collection members and devices as well as sheet transports.

Therefore, the new and improved features of automated banking machine described here achieve at least one of the objectives stated above, eliminate the difficulties encountered in the use of the previous devices and systems, solve the problems and achieve the desired results described herein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and understanding, however unnecessary limitations should not be implied because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be widely considered. However, the descriptions and illustrations given herein are by way of examples and the invention is not limited to the details shown and described.

In the claims that follow any feature described as a means for performing a function should be considered as encompassing any means capable of carrying out the recited function and should not be limited to the structures shown herein or the equivalent numbers thereof.

Having described the characteristics, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and the advantages and useful results achieved; the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

RE I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. A method comprising: (a) hooking an end note limiting a stack of banknotes in an automated banking machine with a rotating collection member, wherein the picking member is rotated about a first axis, and wherein the picking member has in connection of support therewith a middle disk portion and a first outer disk portion positioned on the first axial side of the middle disk portion, and a second outer disk portion positioned on the second axial side of the opposite middle disk portion to the first axial side; (b) rotating the collection member about the first axis in a first direction of rotation to a first rotation position, wherein the end note is engaged with the arcuate high-friction segment of the middle disc in support connection with the part of the middle disc, and a disengaging member in an opposite pressed relationship with the arcuate high-friction middle disc segment, wherein the middle disc high-friction arcuate segment and the disengaging member apply opposing forces to the end note in an area stripping, and wherein the first rotational position the end bill is further engaged with an arcuate projection portion of medium disc low friction in support connection with the middle disc portion and extending radially outward relative to the first axis beyond of the arched high-friction segment of the middle disc, and where in the first rotational position the projection part A low-arched medium disc friction disc engages the end bill in a support area axially positioned on the middle disc portion of the unclipping area, and wherein in the first rotational position of the collection member the end bill is in engagement with a first low friction part of outer disc in support connection with the first outer disc portion and a second low friction portion of outer disc in support connection with the second outer disc portion; (c) rotating the pick-up member in the first rotational direction from the first rotational position to a second rotational position, wherein in the second rotational position the end bill is engaged with the high-disk arc high-friction segment and the disengaging member, and wherein in the second rotational position the arcuate low-friction projection portion does not extend radially outwardly beyond the arcuate high-friction segment of the middle disc when in engagement with the end-bill in the support area , and wherein in the second rotational position the end bill is in contact with a first high friction segment of outer disc in support connection with the first outer disc portion and a second high friction segment of outer disc in connection with support with the second outer disc part; (d) rotating the collecting member in the first rotational direction from the second rotational position, wherein the end bill moves in relation to the other bills in the stack in engagement with the arched high friction segment of the middle disc, the first outer disc high friction segment, the second outer disk high friction segment and in intermediate relation the medium disk high friction arcuate segment and the stripper member, whereby the end note is generally separated from the stack .

2. The method as claimed in clause 1, further characterized in that it comprises: (e) after the end bill moves to an intermediate relationship in the middle disc portion and the discarding member, engaging the end bill with at least one withdrawal member, and moving the end bill in engagement with At least one retreat member.

3. The method as claimed in clause 2, characterized in that at least one withdrawal member is in engagement with the collection member, wherein in (e) the at least one withdrawal member rotates in response to the rotation of the collection member.

4. The method as claimed in clause 3, characterized in that at least one withdrawal member is in a generally abutting relationship with at least one of the first middle disk portion, the first outer disk portion and the second part of the outer disc, and wherein in (e) the end bill moves in intermediate relation between the at least one withdrawal member and at least a part of the middle disc, the first part of the outer disc and the second part outer disc part.

5. The method as claimed in clause 4, characterized in that at least one withdrawal member is in an abutting relationship with the middle disc portion, and wherein in (e) the end bill moves in relation to intermediate of the middle disk part and the at least one withdrawal member.

6. The method as claimed in clause 4, characterized in that the at least one part of the middle disk, the first outer disk part and the second outer disk part have at least one arched segment of elastic drive sustained on the same, wherein in (e) the end bill moves in an intermediate relationship of at least one withdrawal member and at least one arched driving segment.

7. The method as claimed in clause 6, further characterized by comprising: (f) moving the at least one withdrawal member through contact with at least one arched driving segment at a time when the end bill does not extend in intermediate relation between the withdrawal member and the arched driving segment. .

8. The method as claimed in clause 7, characterized in that at least one arched driving segment extends over a complete circumference of at least a middle disk portion, the first outer disk portion and the second disk portion. outside, and wherein in (e) the end bill is engaged in an intermediate relationship of a first part of the at least one arched driving segment, and wherein in (f) the carrying member is engaged with a second portion of at least one arched segment of drive.

9. The method as claimed in clause 8, characterized in that the first part of at least one arched driving segment with which the bill is engaged in (e), is integrated with the arched high-friction disk segment .

10. The method as claimed in clause 9, characterized in that at least one arched driving segment comprises a continuous segment extending around the middle disc portion, wherein the at least one withdrawal member is positioned in a first rotational position relative to the stripping member, and wherein in (e) the end bill moves in an intermediate relationship between the middle disc portion and the removal member.

11. The method as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that at least one of the first outer disk part and the second outer disk part comprises at least one low friction arcuate segment positioned angularly in relation to the first segment high friction outer disc and a second high friction outer disc segment, and before (a) further comprises: (g) hooking the end bill with at least one arc segment of low friction.

12. The method as claimed in clause 11, characterized in that the first outer disc portion comprises a first continuous elastic band extending circumferentially thereon, and wherein the first continuous elastic band includes the first high friction segment of outer disc, and wherein the first outer disc portion includes at least a first flange portion extending transversely of the first band and radially outwardly beyond the first elastic band, and wherein in (g) the billet end is hooked with at least one first flange.

13. The method as claimed in clause 12, characterized in that a first flange portion extends on each transverse side of and radially outwardly beyond the first band, wherein in (g) the end note is engaged with The first flange part on each side of the first band.

14. The method as claimed in clause 12, characterized in that the second outer disc portion comprises a second continuous elastic band extending circumferentially thereon, wherein the second continuous elastic band includes the second high friction disc segment. outside, and wherein the second outer disc part includes at least a second flange portion extending transversely of the second band, and wherein in (g) the end bill is engaged with the second flange portion.

15. The method as claimed in clause 14, characterized in that one of the pair of the first flange portions extends on each side transverse and radially outwardly beyond the first band on the first outer disk portion, and where one of a pair of the second flange portions extends on each side transverse and radially outwardly beyond the second band on the second outer disk part, and wherein in (g) the end note is engaged with the first flange parts on each transverse side of the first band and the second flange portions on each transverse side of the second band.

16. The method as claimed in clause 15, characterized in that before (b) it also comprises: receiving from a user at least one entry through at least one automated banking machine entry device, the at least one entry corresponds to a cash request; Subsequent to (d), fill out the end ticket from the automated banking machine to the user.

17. A method comprising: (h) in an automated banking machine including a stack of sheets, engaging an end sheet that delimits the stack with a movable high friction collecting surface, wherein the high friction pickup surface engages a first side of the end sheet; (i) moving the high friction picking surface to push the end sheet to move it along a first direction in engagement with a stripping surface, wherein the stripping surface acts on the leading edge area and a second side of the stripping surface. the opposite end sheet of the first side in a stripping area and resisting the movement of the end sheet from the stack, and generally preventing the sheets other than the end sheet from moving out of the stack and between the picking surface and the unclothing surface; (j) during at least a part of (b) engaging the end sheet with a projection surface in support connection with the picking surface and transversely adjacent to the stripping area, wherein the deformation of the end sheet at length of the first direction by the stripping surface is minimized by the engagement of the sheet with the projection surface.

18. The method as claimed in clause 17, characterized in that the picking surface comprises a high-friction arcuate segment supported on a rotating cylindrical part, and wherein in (b) the cylindrical part of rotation rotates in a first rotational direction .

19. The method as claimed in clause 17, characterized in that in (c) the projection surface engages the end sheet as the front edge area moves in the middle of the picking surface and the stripping surface.

20. The method as claimed in clause 19, characterized in that the collecting surface comprises a surface of a high-friction arcuate segment supported on a first rotating cylindrical part, and wherein the projection part comprises a sustained low-friction arcuate segment. on the first transversely placed cylindrical part of the high friction arc segment, wherein in (b) and in (c) the cylindrical part rotates in a first direction.

21. The method as claimed in clause 19, characterized in that during at least a part of (b) and subsequent to (c) further comprises: (d) disengage the end sheet from the projecting surface.

22. The method as claimed in clause 21, further characterized in that it comprises a pick-up member wherein the pick-up member comprises the first cylindrical part, and wherein the pick-up member includes at least one arcuate high-friction outer part transversely positioned from the arc segment of high friction and also includes: (e) during at least a part of (d) engaging the end sheet with at least one outer high-friction arcuate portion, wherein such a latch pushes the end sheet to move it in the first direction.

23. The method as claimed in clause 22, characterized in that wherein the picking member comprises a pair of outer cylindrical parts positioned transversely from the first cylindrical part, and wherein each of the outer cylindrical parts includes one of the external high-friction arched parts, and wherein in (e) the end bill is engaged with the external high-friction arched portions on the outer cylindrical parts.

24. The method as claimed in clause 22, characterized in that subsequent to (e) further comprises: (f) engaging the end sheet with a removal roller, wherein the removal roller pushes the end sheet to move it out of the stack.

25. The method as claimed in clause 24, characterized in that in (e) the end sheet is moved between the take-up roll and the first cylindrical part.

26. The method as claimed in clause 25, characterized in that the first cylindrical part includes an elastic band extending circumferentially thereon, and wherein the elastic band includes the high-friction arcuate segment which engages with the end bill in (a).

27. The method as claimed in clause 26, characterized in that before (b), it also comprises: receiving at least one entry from a user corresponding to a cash request through at least one automated banking machine entry device, and after (f) delivering the end sheet to the user.

28. An apparatus comprising: a rotating collecting member adapted to work in conjunction with a stripping member to collect bills generally one at a time from a stack of banknotes in an automated banking machine, the picking member includes a first disk part having a high arched segment. friction, and a projection surface adjacent and transversely positioned from the arcuate high-friction segment, wherein the pick-up member and the stripping member are adapted to move relatively to separate from the stack an end-bill that limits the stack, and in where the projection part acts on a front edge area of each end bill when acted on the end bill by the opposing forces applied to the bill by the arcuate high-friction segment of the pick-up member and the stripping member to avoid the deformation of the front edge area.

29. The apparatus as claimed in clause 28, characterized in that the first disk part of the harvesting member includes an arched projection portion in support connection therewith, and wherein the arched projection portion includes the projection surface. .

30. The apparatus as claimed in clause 28, characterized in that the projection surface extends radially outwardly relative to the first disk part beyond the arcuate high-friction segment.

31. The apparatus as claimed in clause 29, characterized in that the projection surface extends radially outwardly in relation to the high-friction arcuate segment through an arc on the first disk part that is less than an arc across. from which the high friction arc segment extends.

32. The apparatus as claimed in clause 31, characterized in that the high-friction arcuate segment is limited by a front limit, wherein in the separation of a stack end note an adjacent front area of the forward boundary of the arched segment High friction first engages the end bill, and wherein the projection surface extends radially outwardly beyond the arcuate high friction segment adjacent to the front area.

33. The apparatus as claimed in clause 32, characterized in that the first disc part includes a circumferential recess, and wherein a circumferential elastic band extends into the recess, and the elastic band includes the arcuate high-friction segment, and wherein the projection surface limits the recess adjacent to the front area.

34. The apparatus as claimed in clause 33, characterized in that the first disc part includes a low friction arcuate segment, and wherein the arcuate low friction segment includes a projection surface.

35. The apparatus as claimed in clause 33, characterized in that the arcuate segment of high friction in the front area includes an angled tread.

36. The apparatus as claimed in clause 33, characterized in that the elastic band is transversely wider in an area comprising the arcuate segment of high friction in relation to at least one other area of the elastic band.

37. The apparatus as claimed in clause 32, characterized in that the harvesting member further comprises a first external high friction part placed on a first transverse side of the first disk part, and a second external high friction part placed on a second side of the first disc part, the second side being opposite the first side, and wherein the first and second outer high friction portions are aligned transversely with at least a portion of the high friction arcuate segment, wherein the First and second outer high-friction parts engage and move with the end note.

38. The apparatus as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that the first and second outer high friction parts are aligned transversely with one other than the front area of the high friction arcuate segment.

39. The apparatus as claimed in clause 38, characterized in that the harvesting member comprises a first outer recess, wherein a first outer elastic circumferential band extends into the first outer recess, and wherein the first outer elastic circumferential band includes The first part of external high friction.

40. The apparatus as claimed in clause 39, characterized in that the first outer recess is limited by at least one first low friction flange surface, and wherein the first flange surface extends radially outward beyond the first one. first outer elastic circumferential band in at least one other area than the one adjacent to the first outer high friction part.

41. The apparatus as claimed in clause 40, characterized in that the first outer recess is limited on each transverse side by a low friction flange surface.

42. The apparatus as claimed in clause 38, characterized in that the harvesting member includes a central axis, wherein the first disk part is supported on the axis.

43. The apparatus as claimed in clause 42, characterized in that the harvesting member further includes a first outer disk portion supported on the arrow and transversely positioned on a first side of the first disk part, and a second disk part. externally supported on the arrow and transversely placed on a second side of the first opposite disc part of the first side.

44. The apparatus as claimed in clause 43, characterized in that the first outer high friction part is supported on the first outer disc part, and the second outer high friction part is supported on the second outer disc part.

45. The apparatus as claimed in clause 44, characterized in that at least one of the first and second outer disk portions includes a circumferential recess there, wherein an elastic outer band extends into the circumferential recess, and wherein the elastic band includes a corresponding first or second high-friction outer part.

46. The apparatus as claimed in clause 45, characterized in that the recess is joined by a low friction flange portion, wherein the low friction flange part further extends radially outwardly than the elastic band in a different area. to the one adjacent to the corresponding first or second outer high friction part.

47. The apparatus as claimed in clause 46, characterized in that the recess is joined on each side by a low friction flange part.

48. The apparatus as claimed in clause 4, characterized in that the first disc part includes a circumferential recess, and wherein an elastic band extends into the recess, and wherein the elastic band includes the arched high-friction part, and wherein the projection surface limits the recess.

49. The apparatus as claimed in clause 48, characterized in that the first disc part includes a low friction arched projection portion, and wherein the arcuate low friction projection portion includes the projection surface.

50. The apparatus as claimed in clause 49, further characterized in that it comprises a stripping member in an adjacent relationship generally opposite the arcuate high-friction segment, and wherein the low-friction arched projection portion is positioned transversely from the member. dismantler

51. The apparatus as claimed in clause 28, characterized in that in an operative position of the pick-up member, the projection surface is positioned transversely of the stripping member.

52. The apparatus as claimed in clause 50, further characterized in that it comprises a withdrawal member in an adjacent relationship generally opposite to the elastic band and wherein the end bill that is separated from the stack moves in an intermediate relationship. of the elastic band and the withdrawal member.

53. The apparatus as claimed in clause 52, characterized in that the conveyor member is positioned transversely of the stripping member.

54. The apparatus as claimed in clause 53, further characterized in that it comprises an automated banking machine that includes a box, and wherein the picking member, the stripping member and the removal member are in a support connection with the box .

55. The apparatus as claimed in clause 54, characterized in that the shaft has a first end, and wherein the box includes a moving appendage part, and wherein the first end of the shaft is rotated in support connection with the part of appendix.

56. The apparatus as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that the shaft includes a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the banking machine further includes a rotary drive shaft part, and wherein the collecting member rotates in response to the rotation of the driving shaft part, and wherein the appendage part axially presses the axis of the collecting member into contact with the driving shaft part.

57. The apparatus as claimed in clause 56, characterized in that the appendage part is formed integrally with the box and can be moved to allow the pick-up member to be disengaged from the drive shaft part.

58. The apparatus as claimed in clause 54, characterized in that the box includes a first integrally formed leaf spring part, wherein the first leaf spring part is operated to hold the stripping member in abutting relationship with the leaf spring member. dismembering member.

59. The apparatus as claimed in clause 54, characterized in that the box includes a first leaf spring part integrally formed, and wherein the first leaf spring part is operated to hold the removal member in an abutting relationship. with the collector member.

60. The apparatus as claimed in clause 59, characterized in that the box includes a second leaf spring part integrally formed, and wherein the second leaf spring part is operated to hold the stripping member in an adjacent relationship with the collection member.

61. The apparatus as claimed in clause 60, characterized in that the automated banking machine includes at least one input device, and wherein the collection member is caused to rotate and move the end note in response to at least one entry to at least one input device.

62. An apparatus comprising: a harvesting member adapted to work in conjunction with a stripping member to collect leaves generally one at a time from a stack of leaves in an automated banking machine, the picking member includes a first relatively frictional high friction surface relative to the stripping member , wherein the movement of the stripping member relative to the stripping member causes a front area on an end bill limiting the stack to move in an intermediate relationship between the high friction surface and the stripping member, wherein the picking member includes at least one projection surface extending outward toward the end bill and adjacent and transversely positioned from the stripping member, wherein the at least one projection surface is operated to prevent deformation in the front edge area when moving the front edge area between the high surface f Riccion and the dismembering member.

63. The apparatus as claimed in clause 62, characterized in that the high friction surface extends over a distance on the pick-up member along the collection direction from a front edge which limits the high friction surface, and wherein the at least one projection surface extends adjacent to the front edge and extends along the pickup direction only a part of the distance extending on the high friction surface on the pickup member. 6 The apparatus as claimed in clause 63, further characterized in that it comprises at least one external high-friction segment transversely positioned on the pick-up member of the high-friction surface and wherein the at least one high-friction segment The exterior is transversely aligned with a part of the high friction surface and does not align transversely with at least one projection surface. SUMMARY An automated banking machine includes at least one of the sheet assortment mechanisms. Each leaf spout mechanism includes a pickup member. The collecting member rotates, and with each rotation generally causes an end bill to be taken from a stack of leaves. The harvesting member includes an arched projection portion that reduces the risk of damage to the leading edge areas of the leaves due to the opposing collection and stripping forces.